Shenice is a unique and distinctive given name of African American origin. It is derived from the Latin word "senex," which means "old" or "wise." However, it's important to note that Shenice is not directly linked to this Latin root, as its usage and popularity are primarily attributed to African American culture.
The name Shenice first gained traction in the United States during the mid-20th century, with its peak popularity occurring in the 1970s. During this time, it was often used as an alternative to traditional names like Shirley or Sherry. The use of "Shen" as a prefix or suffix in African American naming patterns contributed to the creation and adoption of Shenice.
Throughout its history, Shenice has been primarily associated with African American culture, although it has also been used by people of other ethnicities who appreciate its unique sound and meaning. It is often considered a strong, distinctive name that conveys wisdom and maturity, reflecting its Latin root's association with age and knowledge.
In terms of its popularity, Shenice has never been extremely common but has maintained a steady presence in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, its peak ranking was in 1975, when it reached number 480 for girls' names. Today, it is still occasionally used and can be found among baby name lists, particularly within African American communities.
In conclusion, Shenice is an intriguing given name with a distinct African American heritage. While its direct origin may not be linked to the Latin word "senex," its usage and popularity are deeply rooted in African American naming traditions. With its unique sound and association with wisdom, Shenice continues to be a recognizable and meaningful name choice for those who appreciate its distinctive qualities.
The statistics provided show the annual number of births with the name Shenice in the United States from 1970 to 2003. Over this period, there was a total of 261 babies named Shenice.
The name's popularity varied over time, with some years having more than double the number of births compared to others. The highest peak occurred in 1988 with 21 births, which is notably higher than the average annual birth count for Shenice during this period.
After reaching its highest point in 1988, the popularity of the name gradually decreased until it reached a low point in 1995 and 1996 with only 7 births each year. However, there was another increase in popularity from 1999 to 2002, indicating that Shenice remained an appealing choice for parents during these years.
Overall, while the name's popularity fluctuated over time, it has been consistently present among baby names in the United States from 1970 to 2003.